Marconite Earth Electrode Backfill is a reliable solution for lowering resistance to earth, as part of earthing and lightning protection.
It has considerable advantages over previous electrode backfill products, such as Bentonite.
Certain ground conditions make it difficult to obtain a very low earth resistance, which can be required for some installations. For such cases, Marconite provides a convenient and permanent solution.
By adding Marconite in place of sand and aggregate to cement, a conductive concrete is formed. This enables this electrically conductive concrete to be used in many earthing applications. However, it is primarily used within power generation and distribution, rail, underground and transport networks, telecommunication sites and defence facilities.
When used as a backfill for an earth electrode, Marconite will reduce its resistance to earth by greatly increasing the electrode's surface area, therefore improving its contact with the surrounding soil. For example, increasing the effective diameter of a rod from typically 15 mm to 200 mm, could lower its resistance to earth by as much as 50%.
Features and benefits:
- Tested to industry standard. Fully compliant with IEC 62561-7 lightning protection systems components (LPSC) - Part 7: requirement for earth enhancing compounds.
- Permanent earth reading. Resistivity that will remain constant over the life of the installation with no maintenance needed.
- Constant volume. Marconite will not shrink or expand, thus maintaining constant contact between the earth electrode and the soil.
- Cost-effective. Reduces drilling, saves on earthing materials, and requires no expensive maintenance.
- Environmentally friendly. Chemically inert and completely non-corrosive in both aggressive and non-aggressive environments.
- Fast-drying properties. Allows for quick and easy installation.
- Mechanical strength. Provides high compressive strength where required and will not in any way damage earth electrodes, steelwork or concrete.
- Versatile installation. Suitable for use in boreholes and trenches.
Marconite vs Bentonite
Both are used to backfill earth electrodes and both lower the resistance of the earth. So, why choose Marconite over Bentonite?
Marconite
Composed of minerals and materials that enhance earthing. Strong and long-lasting. Once set, it is good for the life of the structure.
Bentonite
A cheaper, less durable earthing material which uses moisture to reduce resistance. Due to swelling and shrinkage, it needs ongoing maintenance.
| Property | Facts | Choice |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Resistance | Marconite, when combined with cement, has a much lower resistance than Bentonite. | Marconite |
| Chemical Resistance | Marconite is inert – non corrosive. Bentonite is corrosive and can damage electrodes. | Marconite |
| Strength | Marconite is as strong as concrete. Bentonite is clay-like, swelling when moist, and is therefore unfit for structural use. | Marconite |
| Shrinkage | Marconite becomes a stable solid. Bentonite shrinks in dry conditions and therefore requires ongoing maintenance. | Marconite |
| Cost | Marconite is a one-off solution. Lifetime costs are low. Initial savings on Bentonite have to be off-set against increased maintenance and replacement costs. | Marconite |
In every criteria, the choice is clear. Choose Marconite.
